McCallum, John Elvin (Jack)

It is with great sadness and sorrow the family announces the passing of “John Elvin McCallum”, “Jack” of Sicamous, BC. Born on September 27, 1916 in Eden, Manitoba. Predeceased by parents; William & Katheryn Jean, brothers; Jim & Robert, sister; Annie & daughter-in-law; Eleanor. Left to grieve is his loving wife “Flo” of 75 years, son; “Jack Jr”, grandchildren; Don (Jane), Yvonne (Geoff), Alannah (Old Hands), Darlene (Cliff), Charlene (Mike), nieces, nephews, 6 great-grandchildren and many wonderful friends.

Jack first met Flo in 1933 at a dance in Neepawa, Manitobawhere their love soon blossomed. They were married June 5th 1937, a year later young “Jack Jr” was born. He served in the army as a medic in the 2nd World War, for four years and was stationed in France. For a short time, they lived in Lethbridge, Alberta, and then moved to Northern BC, and the Yukon. He worked for D.O.T., then airport manager at Beaton River, Watson Lake, Smith River, then settled for many years in Dease Lake. They moved to Sicamous in 1971, where he worked at the forestry tower on Queest Mountain and Lake Forester on the Shuswap Lakes. Retirement came where he and Flo enjoyed their time together in their home on Silver Sands Road. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, flying, and spending time telling stories with many friends. In 1988 he wrote a book with friend Steven Hill, “Old Bold Pilot”, about his many adventures as a bush pilot in Northern BC and the Yukon. On his 93rd and 95th birthdays, he went sky diving with two of his granddaughters. Recently returned to Scotland, England and France, for the 75th anniversary for D-Day reception & celebration of the 1st & 2nd World War in Dieppe,France, where he participated in the parades.

The family would like to express much gratitude & thanks to Jan & Epp (who have always been there), Dr. Stacey Kirkman and all the nursing staff at Salmon Arm Jubilee Hospital.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, June 5th, 1:00pm at the Seniors Community Centre in Sicamous.

“A true pioneer and adventurist who will be forever loved and missed by many.”

1 Comment

Kenny and Shannon (Tucker) Stowell
on June 3, 2012 at 10:19 pm

We hope that the comfort of family carry’s you all through this time of loss, God Bless.
Great memories of Capt. Jack of the Shuswap Lake trip in his boat on a night of the “Big Storm” he was a true Captain, showed his courage and his competence. ” “May he soar to the heights he has always sought, with God at his side”.